Job Description

2 Weeks assignment | Monday to Friday | Enhanced DBS required



Are you a passionate and experienced cook with leadership skills, ready to make a positive impact on children's daily nutrition? We are looking for a dedicated Head Cook to lead our nursery kitchen team in Potters Bar. Enjoy a rewarding opportunity preparing healthy, delicious meals for children, and benefit from a competitive hourly rate of 15.68 per hour.

Key Responsibilities for Head Cook - Children's Nursery, Potters Bar

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Lead, motivate, and supervise the nursery kitchen team to ensure consistent delivery of nutritious meals tailored to children's needs and preferences. Manage daily kitchen operations, including menu planning aligned with Early Years nutrition guidelines, staff rota coordination, and shift supervision. Prepare, cook, and present healthy, age-appropriate meals and snacks, meeting all dietary requirements and allergen needs. Oversee stock management, ordering, and rotation to guarantee freshness, availability, and minimal food waste. Uphold the highest standards of food hygiene, health, and safety, maintaining full compliance with legal regulations and internal procedures. Cater to special dietary requirements, including allergies, intolerances, and cultural preferences, ensuring child safety and well-being. Support, coach, and develop junior kitchen team members, fostering a positive and collaborative approach.
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Essential Skills & Experience for Nursery Head Cook Jobs in Potters Bar

Minimum of 3 years' experience cooking within a nursery, school, care, or similar fast-paced kitchen environment, including at least 1 year in a supervisory or lead role. Up-to-date Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (required) and Allergen Awareness (essential). Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to motivate others and work under pressure. Demonstrated ability to create balanced menus designed for early childhood nutrition. Dependable, flexible, and empathetic approach to supporting children's health and dietary needs. Experience in safe, effective kitchen management and compliance with food safety standards. Enhanced DBS check (preferred but not essential; willing to undertake if required).
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About Our Children's Nursery in Potters Bar

Welcoming, reputable nursery committed to providing exceptional care and nutrition to children aged 0-5 years. Collaborative kitchen and childcare team dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and positive environment for children and staff. Convenient Potters Bar location with good transport connections and onsite parking. Opportunities for professional growth, ongoing training, and skill-building in child-focused catering environments. Inclusive, respectful workplace culture that values and celebrates all team members.
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Benefits of the Head Cook Role - Nursery, Potters Bar

Competitive hourly rate of 15.68 per hour (including paid holiday entitlement). Family-friendly working patterns and a supportive environment promoting work-life balance. Make a meaningful contribution to children's health, development, and happiness. Be supported by a specialist agency with a commitment to excellence in early years catering. Quick and easy onboarding with prompt weekly pay, allowing you to focus on your culinary passion.
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How to Apply for Nursery Head Cook Jobs in Potters Bar

If you are a talented, reliable Head Cook with a passion for children's nutrition and ready for an immediate start in Potters Bar, we would love to hear from you. Apply below and our friendly team will contact you promptly to guide you through our straightforward, supportive onboarding process.


Take the next step in your culinary career supporting healthy, happy childhoods. Apply today to become the Head Cook at one of Potters Bar's leading children's nurseries!